Smart Energy Council Backs Australia’s 2035 Emissions Reduction Target, Urges Greater Ambition

The Smart Energy Council has welcomed the Albanese Government’s announcement of a 2035 carbon pollution reduction target of 62% to 70%, describing the commitment as a strong step towards a cleaner energy future.

Chief Executive John Grimes said the Council will be “firmly focused on 70%,” noting that the government itself has positioned the target as a floor, not a ceiling. He added that Australia is well placed to exceed the upper range of the target, citing ongoing large-scale investments in renewable energy.

“This announcement is a signal to businesses both here and abroad that Australia is serious about tackling dangerous climate pollution and securing a safe future for our children and grandchildren,” Grimes said.

Australia already has solar installed on 4 million homes, with 10 million Australians living under rooftop panels. According to the Council, the government’s decision, alongside its renewable energy target, is expected to drive further investment in what it calls “the cheapest, cleanest form of power.”

The Smart Energy Council also welcomed the government’s Net Zero Plan, which will direct funding to the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and National Reconstruction Fund to accelerate the rollout of EVs, cleaner fuels, electrification of community facilities, and decarbonization of hard-to-abate sectors.

However, the Council reiterated its stance that no new coal or gas projects should be approved, including extensions to existing mines, if Australia is to maintain climate credibility.

Grimes emphasized that surpassing the 70% reduction target would bolster Australia’s status as a renewable energy superpower, delivering lower power prices, more jobs, and stronger export opportunities.

“The rollout of renewable energy will continue to do the heavy lifting towards achieving the government’s new emissions reduction target, with more than 90% of Australia’s national grid now likely to be powered by renewables by 2035,” he said.

While acknowledging the government’s move as significant, the Council maintained that even more ambitious targets will be necessary to align Australia’s climate action with global efforts.